Scared to work out?

Kayletsgo
Kayletsgo Posts: 5 Member
in Motivation and Support
I don't know about anybody else, but I really have a tough time attempting to 'work out' in public, the ideas and trauma of people's thoughts and gazes, I just can't take it, even if nobody is doing such a thing. I mean can barely walk into my gym, let alone go for a run or a ride around my block in the morning.
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Replies

  • bcattoes
    bcattoes Posts: 17,299 Member
    I don't know about anybody else, but I really have a tough time attempting to 'work out' in public, the ideas and trauma of people's thoughts and gazes, I just can't take it, even if nobody is doing such a thing. I mean can barely walk into my gym, let alone go for a run or a ride around my block in the morning.

    So, work at home until you are more comfortable doing it. While I imagine if you knew how little anyone else thought about you when you were working it out it would bother you less, exercise should not be stressful. If you are more comfortable doing it alone, then do it alone.
  • AyanaSan
    AyanaSan Posts: 93 Member
    Until you get over this fear, why not workout at home? Try something like Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred or Body Revolution. There are so many great workout DVDS out there to get you started.

    I will say, people are not judging you when you're working out in the gym or in the park. A lot of times they admire you for trying to take the initiative to change. The gazes, stares and looks of contempt are usually aimed at the obese person gorging themselves on fast food and not trying to help themselves. But people can tell you this until they are blue in the face, until you find that confidence from within you're going to be ruled by this fear.
  • RhonndaJ
    RhonndaJ Posts: 1,615 Member
    You're definitely not alone in this, and I think the only way to really get past it is to just get out there and do it, and work on focusing on what you're doing, not what others might be thinking. Listen to music, or an audio book that helps to distract you.

    After a while, you should get used to it.
  • movn4ward
    movn4ward Posts: 69 Member
    I echo what everyone else has said, you should work out in private until you are confident enough to work out in public. Different strokes for different folks, try to make your transition into a healthier lifestyle as "easy" as possible. Don't add extra strain and potential excuses by feeling like you have to go to a gym.

    I think most people here start at home and eventually, if ever, go to a gym or work out in public. It's not where it's how...
  • MrsAlexS
    MrsAlexS Posts: 7
    I felt that way at first and then went into the gym and realized there were so many people like me and everyone was just worried about getting themself into to shape. So dont overthink it just ump right in put your headphone on get some great music and you will be surprised and see at this point now I prefer to workout alone along the way I have meant some really nice people in the gym.
  • Crochetluvr
    Crochetluvr Posts: 3,329 Member
    I am working out at home and the pool until I get to a place where I feel more comfortable joining a gym. I know that probably sounds silly to a lot of people but I have anxiety issues that would affect my being able to successfully exercise in that kind of atmosphere at this time. But for now, what i am doing here and at the pool are working. :)
  • morningmud
    morningmud Posts: 477 Member
    I have that fear too! One thing that helped me was having a trainer show me how to properly use the equipment. Having the confidence that I would not do something wrong and embarrass myself in front of others helped me not feel quite so self-conscious. I also try to go during a time that the gym has fewer people. Although, there are tons of routines that can be done at home.
  • MarineWife0013
    MarineWife0013 Posts: 5 Member
    I understand how you feel, but you have nothing to worry about. Work out at home til you build up more confidence in yourself. Then hit the gym, and be proud of all the hard work you doing to change. Most people at the gym are too focused on working out themselves anyway to worry about anyone else. :)
  • speedyf
    speedyf Posts: 1,571 Member
    Take a look at this.
    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/617199-hey-fat-girl

    Don't get fooled by the title... it's a ''must'' read for everybody and a great post!
  • Goal_Line
    Goal_Line Posts: 474 Member
    Hey...I felt that way once. Now I'm a total gym rat.

    You can buy dumb bells and work out at home. You can find a gym that less intimidating - I go to the YMCA (more of a family & retired people).

    Bottom line don't let this fear stop you. Workout, workout hard & smart and in a few months you'll look and feel totally different.
  • Siggy86
    Siggy86 Posts: 5 Member
    Trust me when I say that no one is paying attention to you, so there's no reason to feel nervous. The gym is a place where everyone is literally focused on themselves and unless you're being overly obnoxious somehow (i.e. chatting really loud on the phone while on the treadmill or steadily dropping weights) everyone is pretty much tuned out to the other people around them. I agree with the other posters that said to work out at home until you are more comfortable, but if you prefer to be at the gym, put your headphones on, and strut in there as if you'd just won a marathon! :happy:
  • Rambo313
    Rambo313 Posts: 179 Member
    Trust me when I say that no one is paying attention to you, so there's no reason to feel nervous. The gym is a place where everyone is literally focused on themselves and unless you're being overly obnoxious somehow (i.e. chatting really loud on the phone while on the treadmill or steadily dropping weights) everyone is pretty much tuned out to the other people around them. I agree with the other posters that said to work out at home until you are more comfortable, but if you prefer to be at the gym, put your headphones on, and strut in there as if you'd just won a marathon! :happy:

    I agree people are so concentrated on their own workout they don't pay attention, I know I def don't I just go to workout do my own thing and that is it.
  • jyuubi
    jyuubi Posts: 109
    I know how it feels, but your don't need to go to a gym to work out. If you can afford a gym membership (I don't know if your gym is free, but none of mine are, and they aren't cheap), you can spare some money for some weights for home.
  • RedHeadDevotchka
    RedHeadDevotchka Posts: 1,394 Member
    As much of an outgoing person as I am, I've experienced that. I don't know how/what got me over it, I think maybe that I started when it was slow at the gym. Then I got more comfortable.
  • sandrajune72
    sandrajune72 Posts: 492 Member
    I'm totally with you on this one!

    There's no way I'd join a gym, I'd feel so uncomfortable, besides, I can't afford it!!

    I work out at home, I do 30 Day Shred, Ripped in 30 and other DVD's.

    I recently bought myself a bike, the first time I went out on it I was soooo nervous thinking people would be laughing at me, but in fact no one paid me any attention and I LOVED it!

    If you want to do it, just do it. To hell with what anyone else thinks! You go girl!! :wink:
  • Hellbent_Heidi
    Hellbent_Heidi Posts: 3,669 Member
    Can I tell you a secret?? NOBODY cares what you're doing.

    If they do notice you...screw them. They're far more likely to judge you when you are out in public eating or something. If I notice an overweight person at the gym or running down the road, my only thought is "good for her/him" for being out there moving!
  • ally1130
    ally1130 Posts: 18 Member
    I had this same issue when I first started working out. I didn't want to embarrass myself in front of other people. So I started working out at an all girls gym and only when it wasn't very busy. Also, working out at home with videos is a really good way to test your endurance and ability before you hit the gym. Now that I know how far I can push myself and what to expect out of my workout I have problem going to any gym. You just need to get comfortable with yourself and your workout style. :)
  • macsgirl526
    macsgirl526 Posts: 80
    Try walking in your neighborhood.Thats what I do. I am also doing the couch to 5k thing but I do it in the back of my neighborhood where itsno developed yet so no one can see me run. its hard though I still very weird about it but then again I am doing it for me and not them.If they are going to judge then they need more help than I do. :)
  • MelStren
    MelStren Posts: 457 Member
    Take a look at this.
    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/617199-hey-fat-girl

    Don't get fooled by the title... it's a ''must'' read for everybody and a great post!

    Wow! That brought tears to my eyes!
  • gladpants
    gladpants Posts: 26
    When I started my new lifestyle I had a fear of going into that gym, When i got there I realized so many others there were like me. Over weight trying to do something about it. Yes there are super ripped dudes there lifting a ton and one guy who just shows up all super jacked that I've never seen lift a weight. There are also super in shape women doing cardio with me. I realized however that I am there. I am making a difference in my life. I am making that change that those super in shape people would like to see you make. If anything those super in shape dudes are my motivation. I want to be someone who has been there and can encourage those who are not there yet. Don't let others deter you from being a new healthy person. That is no excuse. You are a paying member. Your diet and exercise regiment works for you and what ever they say is meaningless because you are not them. Keep it up and don't let your money go to waist.

    I throw my headphones on and rock out and barely notice anyone at the gym anymore.
  • newcs
    newcs Posts: 717 Member
    I recommend 30 Day Shred as well...I'm the same way about gyms and was stuck with very little space at home but very little desire to go reveal my clumsy, uncoordinated, red-faced, sweaty and heavy breathing workout self to the world so I picked up 30 Day Shred. All you need is a yoga mat (if you have hard floors), enough space to lay out the mat and swing your arms and a set of small weights or equivalent (I use 5 because it's the smallest that were in the house but if I were buying them, probably would get 2-3lb...some people use canned goods). You can even watch the videos on Youtube for free.
  • rolandgaspar
    rolandgaspar Posts: 27
    Trust me when I say that no one is paying attention to you, so there's no reason to feel nervous. The gym is a place where everyone is literally focused on themselves and unless you're being overly obnoxious somehow (i.e. chatting really loud on the phone while on the treadmill or steadily dropping weights) everyone is pretty much tuned out to the other people around them. I agree with the other posters that said to work out at home until you are more comfortable, but if you prefer to be at the gym, put your headphones on, and strut in there as if you'd just won a marathon! :happy:

    ^^ This...

    Though, every once in a while, one enjoys looking around at the cute people.. you know.. something to strive towards and such... but, really, seriously and truly, no one cares.

    At most, people will see you as someone making an effort, and, well, that's what everyone else is there for!
  • Flixie00
    Flixie00 Posts: 1,195 Member
    Most heavy people feel like this when they join a gym, I certainly did, but they just do it. Trust me, its worth taking the plunge, and most gym user are supportive of big people taking positive action to deal with their weight problems.
  • PlunderBunneh
    PlunderBunneh Posts: 1,705 Member
    It took me awhile to get comfortable working out at the gym. I found that if I plugged into my music as soon as I got there, it was easier. But while you can workout at home until you feel more ready, the only way to get over your fear is to get out there and do it.
    Nobody is gonna judge you. Half the time, I don't even notice the other people there. We're all there just doing our thing.
    I was terrified that I would use one of the machines wrong and someone would laugh at me. That never happened, but just yesterday I saw someone having trouble figuring out a machine, and you know what? Nobody snickered, nobody stared. We all looked around to see if anyone else was on their way to help the guy out, and then the first person there helped him to figure out how to use it.
    We've all been newbs to the gym. Don't worry, and definitely don't be scared.
  • yksdoris
    yksdoris Posts: 327 Member
    I don't know about anybody else, but I really have a tough time attempting to 'work out' in public, the ideas and trauma of people's thoughts and gazes, I just can't take it, even if nobody is doing such a thing. I mean can barely walk into my gym, let alone go for a run or a ride around my block in the morning.

    oh sweetie! first of all, huge hug to you!

    Secondly, I know exactly how it feels. One of the best things about sticking with my weight loss and going to the gym is the confidence boost I have gotten. It gets better, I promise!

    If you feel uncomfortable, you can do what I did: use the more secluded spots in the gym to do your excercises. You don't *have* to join a group lesson for zumba if you don't want to (though, for some people it really halps to get over the confidence issues, so maybe that's something to think about?) Above all, remember this: this journey is about YOU.
  • FitLink
    FitLink Posts: 1,317 Member
    I don't know about anybody else, but I really have a tough time attempting to 'work out' in public, the ideas and trauma of people's thoughts and gazes, I just can't take it, even if nobody is doing such a thing. I mean can barely walk into my gym, let alone go for a run or a ride around my block in the morning.

    Maybe it's time to not care what anyone else thinks. I'm shocked that you consider "people's thoughts and gazes" to be "traumatic." I do lots of things I know other people stare at--my wardrobe is pretty darned unique, I walk with a cane but ride a motorcycle and motorcycle camp--alone. I know I look pretty stupid setting up a tent and screen room with one hand clutching the cane, especially dressed in men's basketball shorts and a women's halter top. On top of that, I'm mid-fifties and was NEVER more than barely attractive--now I'm downright grizzled. So what? I like the clothes and the tent and screen room get up eventually. Let 'em stare. Let 'em point.

    Do what makes ya feel good, and what you want to do and never mind what other people think or look at. It matters not at all.
  • mellabyte
    mellabyte Posts: 193 Member
    Totally feel you. In the past, the number of times I've psyched myself out is immeasurable. :ohwell:

    Working out at home is a great way to get started. Build your confidence working out at home. Then going for power walks outdoors.

    I remember when I first started going to a gym. I committed to a personal trainer and he made me work out in front of the mirrors so I could keep an eye on my form. O.M.G. The thoughts that would go through my head about what everyone else must be thinking were almost incapacitating. :sick: But doing what personal trainers do, he didn't give a crap about that and kept me working.

    Soon I realized that most everyone was in some form of...gym-exerted distortion. :D Grunts, near-orgasmic moans, "power" faces, plastered hair, grimaces, etc. And most everyone was so strongly focused on themselves and their workouts, they obviously didn't have time to point and laugh at me (nor did they care to).

    It also helped me to keep me in my "work out box" when I had headphones on. It was almost like no one else was there. Just me, tunes, a whole lot of sweat and my "ugly" power face. ;) Also, there were significantly less people at the gym early in the morning (or after 9:30pm). Going then, helped ease me into it as well.
  • bmkx0
    bmkx0 Posts: 308
    people at the gym are probably going to look at you proud that youre actually working out unlike so many other people in the world. the only person youre hurting by not going is yourself. go once and you'll find out that it really isn't as bad as you have it made out to be in your head! trust me, i've felt this way before as well but once you just get in there and do your thing you'll realize you were overhyping it and everyone else is there for the same reason you are, to work out.
  • leia_ophelia
    leia_ophelia Posts: 44 Member
    1. As others said, work out at home until you build your confidence
    2. Have a gym buddy. When I started exercising having a gym bddy that have the same level of fitness helps because then we can work out together and encourage each other
    3. Know that there is nothing to be scared about, other people in the gym will not notice you, they don't really care what other people are doing.
  • contingencyplan
    contingencyplan Posts: 3,639 Member
    You'll get over it as soon as you realize people just plain don't care. I used to be that way. Now I work out at the park. And in the parking lot of the car dealership while the car is getting serviced.

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